Friends with Benefits

Do you have friends who are constantly complaining about the lack of things to do in this town?  Do your friends always tell you how bored they are?  Those of you who didn’t nod in agreement, maybe you’re the one.  I’m just teasing. 

Seriously, it’s amazing to me that so many people I meet, both those who are new to the area and sadly, those who’ve been here their whole life, constantly complain about how bored they are and how life would be so much better somewhere else.  Well, I hate to break it to you, but no matter where you go, you take you with you.  You’re likely to find the same boredom anywhere.  Look a little harder, it’s out there. 

Get involved, People.  In my last column, I spoke about how the library ain’t what it used to be.  I mean it.  We have over 150 events every year and I’m not talking about children’s storytimes.  The Library brings in authors, exhibits, columnists, speakers, musicians, artists…the list is long.  How do you get involved?  Contact the Library, 816-701-3706, we have both long- and short-term opportunities ranging from Event Hosts and Ambassadors to Technology Coaches and Shelvers.  Do you have a great idea that the community could benefit from and isn’t currently a programming piece, let us know, we’ll try to work with you.

So, what’s with the soapbox speech, you ask?  Organizations are only as good as their membership.  If you’re bored, get involved.  Put yourself out there.  Engage.  Let the community experience who you are and what you have to offer.  Become a friend with benefits.

Resources:

Become More Than a Spectator

www.cirrus.kcsky.net/outdoor—a list of local clubs to get you out in the great outdoors

www.lucyslist.blogspot.com/—a great site promoting awareness and attendance for various local happenings

Take a Stand

www.volunteermatch.org/bymsa/m3760/c13/org1.html—various Kansas City advocacy groups

Relax and Learn—These organizations all have great opportunities for community involvement.

www.kclibrary.org

www.kcballet.org

www.kcopera.org

www.kcsymphony.org

www.nelson-atkins.org

www.unionstation.org

What do you do?  Email us at youngfriends@kclibrary.org

by Chris Barnickel

Ink. 05.14.08 {vol. 1, issue 7}